2014 World Cup: Miroslav Klose Makes History With Thomas Müller Waiting in the Wings

By Douglas Smith

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There was a storybook feeling to it as Miroslav Klose took over the World Cup scoring crown from Ronaldo. He did it against Brazil on their home soil with a striker’s finish placing the ball in the bottom corner with precision. Klose was the second person to score in Germany‘s rout of Brazil after Thomas Müller. Müller is on pace to easily eclipse Klose, but for now it is the Polish-born forward on the top of the list.

Klose has been humble about the prospect of taking over the record from the Brazilian Ronaldo. He knew he wouldn’t be a starter in every match, but he has been noticeable when he has played. The goal came in the 23rd minute off a beautiful passing sequence by Germany. Klose collected his own rebound and slotted the ball along the field into the near corner. It was the start of four goals in 18 minutes and the dismantling of Brazil.

Klose made history in other ways on Tuesday as well. Klose also moved into a tie for second for the most World Cup matches played. He joins Paolo Maldini with 23 appearances, trailing Lothar Matthäus by two.

Meanwhile, Müller hit double-digit goals in the World Cup with his 11th minute goal. While he was unmarked on this tally against Brazil, it is his ability to get into spaces that has made him a prolific scorer. He finds ways to rotate behind the defense. Müller also showed that he can finish from outside the box against the USMNT. Müller has had six solo runs into the box, two assists and has hit over 55 percent of his shots on target in this tournament. He is only 24 years old.

In a match where records tumbled, the world witnessed a player taking his place as a footballing legend. Klose should be honored and mentioned in the rhetoric surrounding future World Cups. However, at this rate, Müller may only let his teammate keep the record until 2022.